Michael Cheika made sweeping changes to his team two weeks ago in hope of shaking things up and getting his players to respond with better performances. He certainly hit a nerve with Drew Mitchell, who responded with a brilliant performance against the Blues this weekend.

Mitchell was dropped from the team to face the Cheetahs, but was given a reprieve by way of starting against the Blues, and returned the coach’s support with a great performance. Mitchell got on the scoreboard with a typical wingers try, streaking down the touchline and diving over to keep the Waratahs in the match, and eventually win the match.

Mitchell has plans to leave Australia at the end of the season, but all negotiations have been put on hold while he proves to his coach and teammates that he wants to play for the Waratahs. Holding down a starting position is priority to the player, while his next career move will be decided later in the year.